Trying to figure out which career path is the one for you? Here are a few signs that might suggest you'd make the perfect lawyer.
For many, a successful law career is the ultimate goal in their professional life. With lawyers so often featured in films and television series, it’s not difficult to see why so many people aspire to secure a role in the sector.
However, a career as a lawyer may not always be as glamorous as the big screen – and small screen – makes it seem. It takes confidence, determination and a lot of hard work to find your feet in the courtroom and beyond.
Are you hoping to become a lawyer one day? Here are four signs that you might just be the right person for the job.
1. You can stand your ground in an argument
If you feel comfortable standing your ground when others disagree with you, then a career as a barrister may be for you.
Typically, a barrister would be hired by a solicitor to represent a case going to court; therefore, a barrister needs to be confident not only in talking in front of large groups of people, but also in their own knowledge of the case and the laws relevant to it.
The power of persuasion is an important part of the role, too, as a barrister essentially has the power to sway a jury and secure the result their client is looking for with the way they present their information to the court.
2. You’re thorough in your work
Any type of lawyer is required to pay close attention to detail in order to do the job to the best of their ability. Research and investigation plays a huge part in almost any law-related role, so if you’re hoping for success in the industry, it’s important that you’re very thorough in your work.
Whether you have a talent for spotting things other people might have missed, or are known for your impressive organisation, your eagle eye and planning skills would be a welcome addition to any law firm.
3. You have been referred to as a ‘people person’
Do the people who know you best describe you as a ‘people person’? If you’re a strong communicator, a good listener, and able to read people and situations well, the ideal career path for you could centre around law.
Legal work focuses on the client, whether that be an individual, a group or a company. To keep up a good reputation, a lawyer should always provide a listening ear, and empathise with their clients where necessary. Obvious though it may sound, politeness is also essential.
4. You’re good with written word, as well as spoken
Lawyers don’t just have to discuss cases – they’re also responsible for drafting letters and drawing up legal documentation. A lawyer must feel at ease using legal terminology and be good at presenting it in such a way that the average person can understand it, too.
If you can write clearly and concisely, and are able to condense large amounts of information into a single piece of easy-to-understand writing, these skills would certainly serve you well in the law industry.
Think you’ve got what it takes to make it big as a lawyer?
Studying the LLB Qualifying Law Degree is the best way to take your first steps towards becoming a qualified lawyer. You might be interested to know that our LLB QLD is recognised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the Bar Standards Board.
